Perched high in the heart of the French Alps, Alpe d’Huez is more than just a ski resort; It’s a winter paradise where bluebird skies, endless sunshine and world-class slopes create the ultimate holiday setting. Known as the ‘island in the sun’, south-facing slopes bask in an average of 300 days of sunshine per year, giving unforgettable days on the mountain wrapped in golden light.
From the very first moment, you’ll be swept in by the resort’s warm, friendly atmosphere. Whether you’re here for adrenaline-pumping action or soul-soothing relaxation, Alpe d’Huez delivers a unique blend of adventure, charm and breathtaking views that will keep you coming back for more.
Imagine waking up to the glow of the morning sun spilling over snow-covered peaks. After a hearty mountain breakfast you click into your skis for the first run of the day, with fresh corduroy under your feet, the crisp alpine air in your lungs and a horizon painted in gold.
By midday you’re relaxing on a sun-drenched terrace at a mountain restaurant, savouring local specialities while admiring the sweeping views of the Grandes Rousses mountain chain.
The afternoon brings a mix of adventure and indulgence: carving your way down legendary slopes like La Sarenne, gliding through quieter runs as the sun begins to dip, then swapping your ski boots for something more comfortable to enjoy après-ski with friends.
But the day isn’t over yet… As twilight settles over the mountains, you set off on an evening snowshoe hike led by a high-mountain guide. Step by step, under a canopy of stars, you make your way to a hidden igloo where a gourmet alpine feast awaits. And as you head back home to bed, warmed by the experience and the glow of the lanterns, you know tomorrow holds even more magic.
With 250 kilometres of slopes, 67 lifts and a staggering vertical drop of over 2,000m, Alpe d’Huez offers an unrivalled playground for skiers and snowboarders of all levels. The terrain ranges from gentle beginner runs to exhilarating expert challenges, so everyone can carve out their perfect adventure.
But for thrill-seekers, there are two legendary runs stand out from the rest: La Sarenne, Europe’s longest black run at 16 kilometres, and Le Tunnel, a steep, iconic descent carved through the mountainside with jaw-dropping gradients. These are the runs every serious skier should take on at least once in their life.
In Alpe d’Huez, the excitement continues long after you’ve left the slopes. Take to the skies with a paragliding flight for a bird’s-eye view of the snow-covered peaks, or swap skis for wheels and feel the rush of Mountain Karting in the snow. Step inside the ‘Agoralp’ – a sports palace where you can enjoy indoor activities such as fitness, table tennis, mini-golf, indoor swimming and climbing. Then, embrace the authentic magic of winter with a dip in the heated outdoor pool or a glide across the open-air ice rink. And that’s only the beginning, Alpe d’Huez is full of experiences that will make your holiday truly unforgettable.
No more juggling multiple websites. With Alpe d’Huez Vacances Accommodation, you can build your entire holiday in one place quickly, securely and hassle-free.
From accommodation, lift passes and ski lessons to exciting activities and essential extras like parking, equipment hire and ski lockers, it’s easy to enjoy maximum comfort and unforgettable moments from the moment you arrive.
Ready to make it yours? Book your Alpe d’Huez holiday here.
Images © Lionel Royet, OT Alpe d’Huez